BRITISH STANDARD BS 6759-2:

1984
Incorporating
Amendment Nos. 1
and 2

Safety valves —
Part 2: Specification for safety valves
for compressed air or inert gases
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 BS 6759-2:1984

Committees responsible for this

British Standard

The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted by the Pressure Vessel
Standards Committee (PVE/-) to Technical Committee PVE/12 upon which the
following bodies were represented:

Associated Offices Technical Committee

Association of Shell Boilermakers
BEAMA Ltd.
British Compressed Air Society
British Compressed Gases Association
British Valve Manufacturers’ Association Ltd.
Combustion Engineering Association
Electricity Supply Industry in England and Wales
Energy Industries Council
Engineering Equipment and Materials Users’ Association
GAMBICA (BEAMA Ltd.)
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Health and Safety Executive

Institution of Chemical Engineers
Institution of Mechanical Engineers
Liquefied Petroleum Gas Industry Technical Association (UK)
Process Plant Association
Spring Research and Manufacturers’ Association
Water-tube Boilermakers Association

This British Standard, having Amendments issued since publication

been prepared under the
direction of the Pressure Vessel
Standards Committee, was Amd. No. Date of issue Comments
published under the authority
of the Board of BSI and comes 5494 March 1987
into effect on
31 August 1984
9276 January 1997 Indicated by a sideline in the margin
© BSI 07-1999

ISBN 0 580 14008 3

 BS 6759-2:1984

Contents

Page
Committees responsible Inside front cover
Foreword ii
Section 1. General
1 Scope 1
2 Definitions 1
Section 2. Material requirements and limitations
3 Pressure containing components 4
Section 3. Design and construction
4 General 5
5 Helical compression springs 5
Section 4. Production testing and inspection
6 General 9
7 Pressure tests 9
8 Repair of defects in forgings and castings 11
Section 5. Marking and preparation for despatch
9 Marking 12
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10 Preparation for despatch 12

Section 6. Performance testing
11 Type testing of safety valves for operating and flow
characteristics using air or other gas of known characteristics 13
12 Tests to determine operating characteristics 13
13 Test to determine flow characteristics 14
14 Determination of coefficient of discharge and certified
discharge capacity 15
15 Equivalent capacity 17
Appendix A Derivation of equation (11) for the certified capacity
of a safety valve for air 20
Appendix B Derivation of compressibility factor Z 20
Figure 1 — Illustration of area definitions 3
Figure 2 — Illustration of an end coil 6
Figure 3 — Spring plate 7
Figure 4 — Compressibility factor Z as a function of reduced
pressure pr and reduced temperature Tr 18
Table 1 — Spring materials and characteristics 6
Table 2 — Value of the stress correction factor for curvature (K) 7
Table 3 — Load/length tolerances 8
Table 4 — Minimum duration of pressure test 10
Table 5 — Values of C relative to values of k 16
Table 6 — Capacity correction factors for back pressure (Kb) 19
Publications referred to Inside back cover

© BSI 07-1999 i
 BS 6759-2:1984

Foreword

The preparation of this British Standard has been undertaken under the
direction of the Pressure Vessel Standards Committee to incorporate such
requirements as are necessitated by technical developments and to comply with
the requirements of ISO 4126 “Safety valves, general requirements”, published by
the International Organization for Standardization.
The opportunity has been taken to bring together in one standard the
requirements for safety valves. The standard will be published in three Parts as
follows:
— Part 1: Specification for safety valves for steam and hot water;
— Part 2: Specification for safety valves for compressed air or inert gases;
— Part 3: Specification for safety valves for process fluids.
This Part of this standard requires that safety valve designs shall be type tested
for their operational and flow characteristics to the satisfaction of an independent
authority. In order to give manufacturers a period of grace in which to align their
products with this standard, BS 1123 will be retained as an obsolescent standard
until it is withdrawn in December 1987.
To assist manufacturers and independent authorities, a list of testing
establishments, together with details of facilities available, has been compiled
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and is available on request from the Enquiry Section (London), British Standards
Institution.
The hydraulic pressure testing requirements for components to this standard are
in many cases equal to or greater than those for the vessel or system to which they
may be fitted, but in any case it can be taken that any safety valve body will be
capable of sustaining a hydraulic test pressure equal to 1.5 times the design
pressure of the valve as specified to the valve supplier by the purchaser. For this
purpose a safety valve is gagged or the seat blanked off as appropriate during the
test.
This Part of this standard deals with the materials, construction, and testing of
safety valves and associated capacity calculations, but is not intended to cover all
details of their installation, for which additional reference should be made to the
appropriate British Standard.
A British Standard does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users of British Standards are responsible for their correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity
from legal obligations.

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i and ii,
pages 1 to 20, an inside back cover and a back cover.
This standard has been updated (see copyright date) and may have had
amendments incorporated. This will be indicated in the amendment table on the
inside front cover.

ii © BSI 07-1999
 BS 6759-2:1984

Section 1. General

1 Scope 2.1.5
open discharge safety valve
This Part of this British Standard specifies
requirements for the design, inspection, testing and a safety valve which has an inlet connection only
flow certification relating to safety valves for air and discharges directly to atmosphere through holes
receivers and compressed air or inert gases. It is not in the body or bonnet
applicable to the following: 2.2
a) the protection of low pressure storage tanks blowdown of a safety valve
storing liquefied gases at or near atmospheric the difference between the set and the reseating
pressure within the scope of BS 799-5, BS 2594, pressures, normally stated as a percentage of set
BS 2654 and BS 5387; pressure except for very low set pressure when the
b) the protection of vessels and containers used blowdown is then expressed in bar1)
for the transport of fluids under pressure. 2.3
NOTE The titles of the publications referred to in this standard built-up back pressure
are listed on the inside back cover.
the pressure existing at the outlet of the safety valve
2 Definitions caused by flow through the valve and the discharge
system
For the purposes of this Part of BS 6759 the
following definitions apply. 2.4
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certified discharge capacity

2.1 safety valve
that portion of the measured capacity permitted to
A valve which automatically, without the assistance be used as a basis for the application of a safety
of any energy other than that of the fluid concerned, valve
discharges a certified quantity of the fluid so as to
NOTE The certified discharge capacity is derived from either
prevent a predetermined safe pressure being measured flow rate X derating factor, or theoretical flow rate X
exceeded, and which is designed to re-close and coefficient of discharge X derating factor, or theoretical flow rate
prevent the further flow of fluid after normal X derated coefficient of discharge.
pressure conditions of service have been restored. 2.5
2.1.1 coefficient of discharge (Kd)
closed bonnet safety valve the actual flowing capacity, determined by flow
a safety valve in which the spring is totally enclosed testing, divided by the theoretical capacity,
within the bonnet determined by calculation
NOTE The closed bonnet prevents leakage to the atmosphere 2.6
and protects the spring from environmental conditions and cold differential test pressure
damage. Where pressure build up within the bonnet is not
acceptable a suitable means of venting is provided. the inlet static pressure at which a safety valve is
2.1.2 set to commence to lift on the test stand. This test
direct loaded safety valve pressure includes corrections for service conditions
of back pressure and/or temperature
a safety valve in which the loading due to the fluid
pressure underneath the valve disk is opposed only 2.7
by direct mechanical loading such as a weight, a commencement of lift
lever and weight, or a spring initial lift such as would cause the first indication of
2.1.3 movement on a linear transducer or equivalent
enclosed discharge safety valve NOTE Provision of such instrument facility only applies to
valves under operating characteristics tests.
a safety valve having an outlet connection enabling
2.8
the discharge to be piped to a safe place. Sometimes
derated coefficient of discharge (Kdr)
referred to as a piped discharge safety valve
the coefficient of discharge (Kd) multiplied by a
2.1.4
derating factor of 0.9
open bonnet safety valve
2.9
a safety valve where the spring is exposed to the
derating factor
environment
the factor of 0.9 used in calculating the certified
discharge capacity

1)
1 bar = 105 N/m2 = 100 kPa.

© BSI 07-1999 1
 BS 6759-2:1984

NOTE This factor takes account of the manufacturing 2.17

tolerances and permitted variation of test results. overpressure of a safety valve
2.10 a pressure increase over the set pressure of a safety
equivalent calculated capacity
valve, usually expressed as a percentage of set
the calculated capacity of a safety valve for pressure
conditions of pressure, temperature or nature of the
2.18
fluid which differ from those for which certified
relieving pressure (flow rating pressure)
capacities are available
set pressure plus overpressure
2.11
flow area 2.19
reseating pressure of a safety valve
the minimum cross-sectional flow area (but not the
curtain area) between inlet and seat which is used the value of inlet static pressure at which the disk
to calculate the theoretical flowing capacity, with no re-establishes contact with the seat or at which lift
deduction for any obstruction becomes zero
NOTE See Figure 1. 2.20
2.12 set pressure
flow diameter the predetermined pressure at which a safety valve
the diameter corresponding to the flow area under operating conditions should commence to lift.
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It is the gauge pressure measured at the valve inlet

2.13 at which the pressure forces tending to open the
independent authority valve for the specified service conditions are in
that competent independent authority which bears equilibrium with the forces retaining the valve disk
responsibility for all aspects of surveillance of tests, on its seat
checking of calculations and certification of safety 2.21
valve discharge capacities superimposed back pressure
2.14 the static pressure existing at the outlet of a safety
inspecting authority valve at the time the device is required to operate. It
the competent independent authority or association is the result of pressure in the discharge system
which verifies compliance with this standard from other sources
2.15 2.22
lift theoretical flowing (discharge) capacity
the travel of the disk away from the closed position the calculated capacity expressed in gravimetric or
2.16 volumetric units of a theoretically perfect nozzle
nominal size (DN) having a cross-sectional flow area equal to the flow
area of a safety valve
a numerical designation of size which is common to
all components in a piping system other than
components designated by outside diameter or by
thread size. It is a convenient round number for
reference purposes and it is only loosely related to
manufacturing dimensions

2 © BSI 07-1999
 © BSI 07-1999
Licensed copy:DRAKE AND SCULL, 11/03/2004, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

Ï
NOTE The flow area is --- D2 (see 2.11). The curtain area is ÏD1L.
4
Figure 1 — Illustration of area definitions

BS 6759-2:1984
3
 BS 6759-2:1984

Section 2. Material requirements and limitations

3 Pressure containing components h) other material having properties at least equal

to those of the material to which it is an intended
3.1 Material specification
alternative, subject to agreement between the
The materials used in the manufacture of bodies manufacturer and the purchaser.
and other pressure containing components of safety
3.2 Seats and disks
valves shall be selected from the following taking
into account the appropriate temperature and The seats and disks of valves shall be made from
pressure limitations for the materials that are corrosion and erosion resistant material. Materials
given: shall not be used which distort or degrade under
operating conditions, such as to cause a rise in the
a) cast carbon steel to BS 1504-161, grade 430 or
set pressure, leakage or change in the discharge
BS 3146-1; maximum temperature 400 °C;
capacity.
b) wrought carbon steel bar to BS 970-1, 070M20;
Grey cast iron shall not be used for the seats or disks
maximum temperature 480 °C;
of valves.
c) forged carbon steel to BS 1503-221-430;
maximum temperature 480 °C; 3.3 Safety valve springs
d) grey cast iron with minimum mechanical Material requirements for safety valve springs are
properties equal to those specified in BS 1452 given in clause 5.
grade 220; maximum temperature 220 °C and 3.4 Pressure containing joints
maximum pressure 13 bar;
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3.4.1 Bolting. The dimensions and finish of bolting

e) spheroidal graphite iron with minimum shall comply with the following British Standards
mechanical properties equal to those specified in as appropriate.
BS 2789, grade 420/12; maximum
Metric Inch
temperature 350 °C;
BS 3692 BS 1768 (Below " in)
f) copper alloy with minimum mechanical
properties equal to those specified in BS 4190 BS 1769
BS 1400 LG 2 or BS 2874 CZ121; maximum BS 4439 BS 2708
temperature 260 °C; BS 4882 BS 4882
g) austenitic chromium nickel steel bar to
3.4.2 Jointing. The jointing material and type shall
BS 970-1, grade 316 S33; maximum
be suitable for the application.
temperature 450 °C;

4 © BSI 07-1999
 BS 6759-2:1984

Section 3. Design and construction

4 General 4.9 Flanges

4.1 Drawings In the case of safety valves, the drilling, thickness
and bolting of inlet flanges shall comply with the
Each safety valve shall be manufactured in
requirements of BS 4504 or BS 1560-2, for the
accordance with the detailed drawing submitted to
appropriate pressure and material and for the
and approved by the independent authority
diameter of flange adopted. In the case of outlet
responsible for the type approval and certification
flanges, the appropriate pressure shall be the
[see 11.3 a)]. pressure on the outlet side of the valve.
NOTE Safety valves of the direct loaded spring operated type
are preferred. 4.10 Screw threads
4.2 Discharge Screw threads shall be in accordance with BS 21.
The design of the safety valve shall be such that 4.11 Helical compression springs
breakage of any part shall not obstruct free and full Helical compression springs shall comply with the
discharge through the safety valve. requirements of clause 5.
4.3 Thickness 4.12 Certified capacity
The thickness of pressure containing parts of a Safety valves shall be designed and constructed to
safety valve shall be the responsibility of the achieve their certified capacity at an overpressure of
manufacturer. either 0.3 bar or 10 % of the set pressure, whichever
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4.4 Moving parts is the greater.

The valve disks and spindles: 4.13 Tolerances
a) shall be guided efficiently, and 4.13.1 Tolerance on set pressure. The permitted
b) shall have sufficient clearance to ensure tolerance on set pressure shall be:
freedom of movement under all conditions of a) for set pressure below 5 bar: ± 0.14 bar;
service, and b) for 5 bar up to 20 bar: ± 3 %;
c) shall be prevented from lifting out of the c) for 20 bar up to 100 bar: ± 2 %;
guides.
d) for 100 bar and above: ± 1.5 %.
Spindles shall not be fitted with packed glands
(stuffing boxes). 4.13.2 Tolerance on blowdown
4.5 Seat and disk [Link] Valves with adjustable blowdown: 2.5 % of
set pressure, minimum; 7 % of set pressure,
The design of the seat and disk combination shall maximum, except for valves having:
preclude the possibility of jamming. Seats other
a) flow diameter less than 15 mm, when the
than those of integral design, shall be effectively
maximum limit of blowdown shall be 10 % of set
secured.
pressure;
4.6 Prevention of interference with set
b) values of set pressure less than 3.0 bar, when
pressure
the blowdown shall be a maximum of 0.3 bar.
After setting, all safety valves shall be secured by [Link] Valves with non-adjustable blowdown:
the manufacturer, the manufacturer’s maximum 10 % of set pressure or 0.3 bar, whichever
representative or a responsible authority. is the greater.
4.7 Easing gear
Safety valves shall be so arranged that, when they 5 Helical compression springs
are under a pressure of not less than 75 % of the set 5.1 General
pressure, the mechanical load on the valve head can
The requirements of this clause are based upon
be eased by means of suitable gear.
BS 1726-1.
NOTE Easing gear may be omitted for particular applications,
provided that the functioning of the safety valve can be regularly The allowable stresses shall be based on previous
checked by alternative means agreed with the appropriate satisfactory experience and the current
authority. understanding of the behaviour of spring materials,
4.8 Body end connections taking into consideration the temperature of the
Except when other types of connection are used, spring, the environment and the amount of
subject to agreement between the purchaser and the relaxation which is permissible in service.
manufacturer, the end connections of safety valves
shall be either flanged or screwed.

© BSI 07-1999 5
 BS 6759-2:1984

5.2 Materials 5.3.2 Spring index. The spring index, i.e. the mean
The spring material shall be one of those specified diameter of the coil, D, divided by the diameter of
in Table 1. The material selected shall comply with the section, d, shall be within the range 3.5 to 12.
the limitations on temperature range given in the 5.3.3 Spacing of coils. At the maximum designed
table and shall have corrosion resistant properties valve lift the spring compression shall be no greater
suitable for the duty required. than 80 % of the total deflection to solid.
Table 1 — Spring materials and 5.4 End coils
characteristics Both ends of each spring shall be closed against the
Material Recommended Temperature adjacent full coils, and ground to provide a smooth
limiting wire range for
diameters which the flat bearing surface of 300° maximum, but not less
spring than 270° of the circumference (see Figure 2).
material is
suitable Smooth consistent tapers to smooth edges shall be
mm °C provided with a coil tip thickness approximately
BS 2803, 094A65 HS up to 12.5 – 20 to + 150 equal to one-quarter of the wire diameter.
735A50 HS up to 12.5 – 20 to + 175 The end coils of a spring shall not encroach upon the
specified inside or outside diameters of the spring
685A55 HS up to 12.5 – 20 to + 175
(see Figure 2).
BS 5216, HS2 up to 13 – 20 to + 130 5.5 Spring plates/buttons
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HS3 up to 13 – 20 to + 130
The spring plates/buttons shall have a locating
BS 2056, 302S26 up to 10 – 200 to + 250 spigot length (excluding any radius or chamfer) of at
316S42 up to 10 – 200 to + 250 least 0.75 of the spring wire diameter. The
maximum clearance between the outside diameter
5.3 Dimensions of the locating spigot and the inside diameter of the
5.3.1 Proportion. The proportion of the unloaded spring shall not exceed 0.7 mm (see Figure 3). The
length to the external diameter of the spring shall spring shall rotate freely.
not exceed 4 to 1.

Figure 2 — Illustration of an end coil

6 © BSI 07-1999
 BS 6759-2:1984

Other symbols used in the equation are defined

in 5.6.
5.8 Temperature of the spring
The temperature range suitable for a spring is
dependent on the material used and shall be in
accordance with Table 1.
Table 2 — Value of the stress correction
factor for curvature (K)
D/d K D/d K D/d K

3.0 1.600 6.1 1.235 9.1 1.148

3.1 1.571 6.2 1.231 9.2 1.146
3.2 1.545 6.3 1.226 9.3 1.145
3.3 1.522 6.4 1.222 9.4 1.143
Figure 3 — Spring plate 3.4 1.500 6.5 1.218 9.5 1.141
3.5 1.480 6.6 1.214 9.6 1.140
5.6 Stress 3.6 1.462 6.7 1.211 9.7 1.138
The corrected shear stress, q, shall be determined 3.7 1.444 6.8 1.207 9.8 1.136
from the following equation: 3.8 1.429 6.9 1.203 9.9 1.135
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3.9 1.414 7.0 1.200 10.0 1.133

8WDKA 4.0 1.400 7.1 1.197 10.1 1.132
q = ----------------------- (1)
3
Ïd 4.1 1.387 7.2 1.194 10.2 1.130
4.2 1.375 7.3 1.190 10.3 1.129
where 4.3 1.364 7.4 1.188 10.4 1.128
q is the corrected shear stress (in N/mm2); 4.4 1.353 7.5 1.185 10.5 1.126
4.5 1.343 7.6 1.182 10.6 1.125
W is the force at set pressure (in N); 4.6 1.333 7.7 1.179 10.7 1.124
D is the mean diameter of the coil (in mm); 4.7 1.324 7.8 1.176 10.8 1.122
4.8 1.316 7.9 1.174 10.9 1.121
d is the diameter of the section (in mm); 4.9 1.308 8.0 1.171 11.0 1.120
K is the stress correction factor for curvature 5.0 1.300 8.1 1.169 11.1 1.119
(see Table 2): 5.1 1.293 8.2 1.167 11.2 1.118
5.2 1.286 8.3 1.164 11.3 1.117
D / d + 0.2
= ------------------------- 5.3 1.279 8.4 1.162 11.4 1.115
D / d – 1.0 5.4 1.273 8.5 1.160 11.5 1.114
¸ +¸ 5.5 1.267 8.6 1.158 11.6 1.113
1 2 5.6 1.261 8.7 1.156 11.7 1.112
A = ------------------
- (2)
¸1 5.7 1.255 8.8 1.154 11.8 1.111
5.8 1.250 8.9 1.152 11.9 1.110
where 5.9 1.245 9.0 1.150 12.0 1.109
$1 is the axial deflection due to force W (in mm); 6.0 1.240

$2 is the additional deflection due to valve lift 5.9 Handing of coils

(in mm). Where springs are nested, the adjacent springs shall
5.7 Number of working coils be opposite handed.
NOTE Single springs may be coiled either right hand or left
The number of working or free coils in a spring shall hand.
be determined from the following equation:
5.10 Testing and dimensional checks
4
d G ¸1 5.10.1 Permanent set. Springs shall be tested for
n = ------------------
- (3) permanent set.
3
8D W

where
n is the number of working coils;
G is the shear modulus (in N/mm2);

© BSI 07-1999 7
 BS 6759-2:1984

The permanent set of a spring (defined as the If the inside diameter is specified as a fixed
difference between the free length of the spring after dimension, that dimension shall be supplied within
it has been scragged solid a maximum of six times the tolerance calculated as follows:
and the length measured 10 min after the spring
has been compressed solid three additional times at + 2 ( D / d )t
T = (4)
room temperature) shall not exceed 0.5 % of the free –0
length.
where
5.10.2 Dimensional check. Following the above test,
each spring shall be subjected to the following: T is the coil inside diameter tolerance (in mm);
a) two load/length measurements corresponding D is the mean coil diameter (in mm);
to: d is the diameter of wire (in mm);
1) the minimum cold differential test pressure
t is the wire diameter tolerance (in mm)
of the safety valve;
2) the maximum cold differential test pressure The minimum tolerance shall be +– 00.15 mm.
of the safety valve plus lift; 5.11.3 Free length, end squareness and straightness.
b) dimensional checks in accordance with The tolerances for free length, end squareness and
BS 1726-1. straightness shall be in accordance with BS 1726.
The tolerances shall comply with 5.11. 5.12 Surface defects
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NOTE Any additional testing requirements may be specified The requirements with regard to surface defects are
and agreed by the purchaser with the spring manufacturer.
those specified in the relevant material standard.
5.11 Tolerances
5.13 Marking
5.11.1 Load/length. The tolerances on load/length
requirements shall be as given in Table 3. Identification marks shall not cause damage to the
surface condition of the spring material.
Table 3 — Load/length tolerances
5.14 Spring test certificate
Number of working coils Load tolerance
When required, the safety valve manufacturer shall
% request a test certificate stating that the spring(s)
Less than 4 ± 7.5 has been made from the specified material and has
4 to 10 inclusive ± 5.0 been tested in accordance with this standard.
More than 10 ± 3.0

5.11.2 Coil diameter. Assembly and machined part

considerations determine whether the inside or
outside diameter of the spring is critical and the
spring specification shall indicate the limits on the
spring diameters within which the spring shall be
supplied.

8 © BSI 07-1999
 BS 6759-2:1984

Section 4. Production testing and inspection

6 General b) for screwed or welded connections, 1.5 times

the maximum back pressure.
Pressure testing shall comply with the
requirements of this standard and be carried out by Safety valves to be installed with a free discharge or
the safety valve manufacturer. where the only back pressure is built-up back
pressure do not require a pressure test to be applied
NOTE 1 Hydraulic testing is the preferred method, but
pneumatic testing is permissible (see 7.4). to that part of the valve on the discharge side of the
NOTE 2 It is permissible for the pressure tests on valves made seat.
from wrought or forged materials to be waived for valves of a size
not exceeding DN 32 where it can be demonstrated that the
7.1.2 Bonnet and cap test. Closed bonnets and caps
design of the valve renders it capable of withstanding at shall, except for those safety valves exempted by
least 10 times the design pressure. note 2 of clause 6, be pressure tested at a pressure
All pipes, connections and blanking devices of the not less than that for the body tests given in 7.1.1
test installation shall be capable of withstanding appropriate to the discharge side of the seats.
the test pressure. 7.2 Duration of the pressure test
All pressure measuring devices fitted to test The test pressure shall be applied, and maintained
equipment shall be regularly tested and calibrated at the required pressure for a sufficient length of
to ensure the required accuracy during testing. All time to permit a visual examination to be made of all
Bourdon tube pressure gauges shall be calibrated in surfaces and joints, but in any case for not less than
accordance with either clause 34 b) of BS 1780:1960 the times detailed in Table 4. For tests on the
or 5.2.1 of BS 1780-2:19712).
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discharge side of the seat, the testing times shall be

Any temporary welded-on attachments, for the based on the pressure specified in 7.1.1 and the
purpose of carrying out the tests, shall be carefully discharge size.
removed after the test, and the resulting weld scars The test pressure on the bonnet and cap shall be
shall be ground flush with the parent metal. After applied and maintained at the required pressure for
grinding, all such scars shall be inspected by at least 2 min.
magnetic particle or liquid penetrant techniques in
accordance with BS 4080 to ensure that no injurious 7.3 Hydraulic test
defects remain. The test pressure shall be as specified in 7.1.
NOTE Suitable purity water should normally be used as the
7 Pressure tests test medium unless circumstances dictate otherwise. Attention is
drawn to the need to control the chloride content of test water in
NOTE Any testing requirements supplementary to the the case of austenitic stainless steel valves/components. Where
pressure test given in 7.3 or 7.4 should be specified by the other liquids are used, subject to agreement between the
purchaser; reference may be made to BS 3636 where appropriate. manufacturer and the purchaser, additional precautions may be
7.1 Test pressure and application necessary, depending on the nature of the liquid.
Valve bodies shall be vented to remove entrapped
7.1.1 Bodies. The bodies of all safety valves, except
air before testing.
those exempted by note 2 of clause 6, shall be
subjected to a pressure test to ensure the integrity If materials which are liable to failure by brittle
of the part. fracture are incorporated in that part of the safety
valve which is to be hydraulically tested, then both
The body seat shall be blanked off and a test
the safety valve, or part thereof, and the testing
pressure of 1.5 times the maximum pressure for
medium shall be at a sufficient temperature to
which the safety valve is designed shall be applied
prevent the possibility of such failure.
only to the part of the body on the inlet side of the
seat. No valve or part thereof undergoing pressure
testing shall be subjected to any form of shock
In the case where a safety valve is to be subjected to
loading, e.g. hammer testing.
a superimposed back pressure, or for valves on
closed discharge systems (closed bonnet valves), a The valves shall be dried thoroughly after testing.
pressure test shall be applied to those parts on the 7.4 Pneumatic test
discharge side of the seat. The test pressure shall be
7.4.1 Application. Pressure testing with air or other
not less than:
suitable gas shall only be carried out in place of the
a) for flanged connections, 1.5 times the cold hydraulic test (see 7.3) with the agreement of all
rating appropriate to the outlet flange material parties involved.
or 1.5 times the design pressure of the valve
The test pressure and method of application of the
body, whichever is the smaller;
test pressure shall be as specified in 7.1.

2)
The relevant requirements given in both these standards are identical.

© BSI 07-1999 9
 BS 6759-2:1984

Table 4 — Minimum duration of pressure test

Pressure rating

Up to and including Over 40 bar, up to and Over 64 bar

40 bar including 64 bar

Nominal valve size DNa Duration

min min min

Up to and including 50 2 2 3
over 50 up to and including 65 2 2 4
over 65 up to and including 80 2 3 4
over 80 up to and including 100 2 4 5
over 100 up to and including 125 2 4 6
over 125 up to and including 150 2 5 7
over 150 up to and including 200 3 5 9
over 200 up to and including 250 3 6 11
over 250 up to and including 300 4 7 13
over 300 up to and including 350 4 8 15
over 350 up to and including 400 4 9 17
over 400 up to and including 450 4 9 19
Licensed copy:DRAKE AND SCULL, 11/03/2004, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

over 450 up to and including 500 5 10 22

over 500 up to and including 600 5 12 24
a Nominal valve sizes larger than DN 600 shall have testing times pro rata.

7.4.2 Safety requirements. No valve undergoing 7.5 Setting of cold differential test pressure
pneumatic test shall be subjected to any form of The setting of the cold differential test pressure
shock loading. shall not be carried out unless the safety valve
Precautions shall be taken to prevent the test pressure-containing components have previously
pressure being exceeded. been pressure tested in accordance with 7.3 or 7.4
The hazards involved in pneumatic pressure testing or are exempted by note 2 of clause 6.
shall be considered and adequate precautions taken. Using air or other suitable gas, each safety valve
NOTE Attention is drawn, in particular, to the following shall be set in accordance with the manufacturer’s
relevant factors: standard practice which shall ensure the accuracy
a) If a major rupture of the valve should occur at some stage and repeatability of the setting.
during the application of pressure, considerable energy will be
released, hence no personnel should be in the immediate 7.6 Repeatability test
vicinity during pressure raising.
b) If the gas pressure is reduced to the valve under test from After setting, each valve shall be tested to establish
high pressure storage the temperature will fall. the repeatability of the set pressure. This shall be
The risk of brittle failure under test conditions shall carried out by lifting and reseating the valve three
have been critically assessed at the design stage and times. The lift shall be achieved either by fluid
the choice of materials for valves which are to be pressure or a combination of fluid pressure and
pneumatically tested shall be such as to avoid the easing gear. The lift achieved during this test shall
risk of brittle failure during test. This necessitates be not less than 50 % of the lift at the certified
provision of an adequate margin between the discharge capacity of the valve. Following the test
transition temperature of all parts and the metal the setting shall be checked and shall comply with
temperature during testing. the tolerance requirements of 4.13.1. If any
Valves undergoing pneumatic test shall not be adjustments are necessary the procedure shall be
approached for close inspection until the pressure repeated.
has been reduced to the design pressure after
maintaining the test pressure for a period not less
than that given in Table 4.

10 © BSI 07-1999
 BS 6759-2:1984

8 Repair of defects in forgings and When a purchaser requires to examine the casting
castings before repair and/or apply additional
non-destructive testing, this shall be specified on
8.1 Forgings the enquiry and order.
Defects in forgings shall not be repaired unless The repair, inspection of completed welds and
agreed with the purchaser. records of location of welds shall comply with the
8.2 Castings requirements of BS 4570-1.
8.2.1 Cast iron. Defects in iron castings shall not be 8.2.3 Non-ferrous. Defects in non-ferrous castings
repaired shall not be repaired unless agreed with the
purchaser.
8.2.2 Steel
NOTE Unless otherwise specified by the purchaser on the
enquiry and order, steel castings may be rectified by welding,
without the previous sanction of the purchaser.
Weld repairs shall be carried out in accordance with
BS 4570-1. The inspection of weld zones shall be to
the same extent as that applied to the unwelded
casting.
Licensed copy:DRAKE AND SCULL, 11/03/2004, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

© BSI 07-1999 11
 BS 6759-2:1984

Section 5. Marking and preparation for despatch

9 Marking d) the flow area (in mm2);

9.1 Each safety valve shall bear legible and e) the minimum lift (in mm) and corresponding
permanent marking on the body or on a plate overpressure;
securely fixed to the body. The following minimum f) on adjustable valves, the minimum and
information shall be given: maximum set pressures for which the spring has
a) the manufacturer’s name or trade mark; been designed;
b) the manufacturer’s type reference; g) the material designation of the body.
c) the set pressure (in bar); 10 Preparation for despatch
d) a clear indication of flow direction or
identification of the inlet port on a valve having 10.1 End protection
facilities for enclosed discharge; Both inlet and outlet flanges shall be fitted with
e) the number and date of this British Standard, suitable end closures to protect the flange faces and
i.e. BS 6759-2:19843). to prevent the ingress of foreign matter.
9.2 The manufacturer shall, when required, make Threaded connections shall be protected against
available the following information either on an damage in transit, and the packaging used shall
identification plate affixed to the valve or on an prevent ingress of foreign matter.
instruction sheet: 10.2 External coatings
Licensed copy:DRAKE AND SCULL, 11/03/2004, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

a) the inlet size designation and thread or flange Exterior surfaces of the valve shall be protected
type; against corrosion either according to the
b) the limiting operating temperatures (in °C) for manufacturer’s standard procedure or as required
which the valve has been designed; by the purchaser.
c) the derated coefficient of discharge or certified
discharge capacity (stating units and reference
fluid);

3)
Marking BS 6759-2:1984 on or in relation to a product is a claim by the manufacturer that the product has been manufactured
to the requirements of the standard. The accuracy of such a claim is therefore solely the manufacturer’s responsibility. Enquiries
as to the availability of third party certification to support such claims should be addressed to the Director, Quality Assurance
Division, BSI, Maylands Avenue, Hemel Hempstead, Herts HP2 4SQ for certification marks administered by BSI or to the
appropriate authority for other certification marks.

12 © BSI 07-1999
 BS 6759-2:1984

Section 6. Performance testing

11 Type testing of safety valves for 11.4 Results calculated from test
operating and flow characteristics The theoretical flowing capacity shall be calculated
using air or other gas of known (see 14.3) and, using this value together with the
characteristics actual flowing capacity at relieving pressure, the
coefficient of discharge of the safety valve shall be
11.1 Carrying out of tests calculated (see 14.1).
The tests to determine the operating characteristics 11.5 Design changes
shall be in accordance with clause 12 and the tests
to determine the flow characteristics shall be in When changes are made to the design of a safety
accordance with clause 13. valve in such a manner as to affect the flow path, lift
or performance characteristics of the valve, new
When these tests are carried out separately, the
tests shall be carried out in accordance with 11.3.
parts of the valve which influence fluid flow shall be
complete and installed in the valve.
12 Tests to determine operating
All testing shall be witnessed by a representative(s) characteristics
of the independent authority or authorities.
12.1 Carrying out of tests
11.2 Object of tests
The set pressures at which the operating
The object of the tests is to determine, under specific
characteristics are determined shall be the
operating conditions, particular characteristics of
minimum set pressures for which the spring is
Licensed copy:DRAKE AND SCULL, 11/03/2004, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

the valves before opening, while discharging and at

designed. Valves shall be tested using air or other
closing. The following characteristics shall be
gas of known characteristics. The allowable
determined: tolerances or limits, as applicable, on these
a) set pressure; characteristics are as follows.
b) reseating pressure; a) Set pressure:
c) blowdown; below 5 bar ± 0.14 bar
d) reproducibility of valve performance; 5 bar up to 20 bar ±3%
e) mechanical characteristics of the valves 20 bar up to 100 bar ±2%
determined by seeing or hearing such as: 100 bar and above ± 1.5 %
ability to seat satisfactorily; b) Lift: The minimum value for a given size of
absence or presence of chatter, flutter, valve to meet the requirements of 13.2.
sticking and/or harmful vibration;
c) Adjustable blowdown: 2.5 % of set pressure,
f) relieving pressure; minimum; 7 % of set pressure, maximum, except
g) lift at the appropriate overpressure; for valves having:
h) flow characteristics. 1) flow diameter less than 15 mm, when the
maximum limit of blowdown shall be 10 % of
11.3 Procedure for testing
set pressure;
The purpose and manner of testing shall be such as
2) values of set pressure less than 3.0 bar,
to provide suitable data from which the operational
when the blowdown shall be a maximum
and flow characteristics are determined. To this end
of 0.3 bar.
the following information shall be supplied to the
independent authority, and shall be approved before d) Non-adjustable blowdown: maximum 10 % of
testing is undertaken: set pressure or 0.3 bar, whichever is the greater.
NOTE The independent authority may dispense with the
a) full particulars of the valves to be tested, operating characteristic test described in this clause when it has
including detailed drawings, and the range of experience or documented independent evidence of lift and
valves and springs which they represent; satisfactory performance of the specific design of safety valve.
b) details of the test rig(s) including proposed 12.2 Test equipment
instrumentation test and calibration procedure; The error of pressure measuring equipment used
c) the proposed source, capacity, pressure, during the test shall be not more than 0.5 % of the
temperature and properties of the test fluid(s). full scale reading, with the test pressure within the
middle third of the instrument range.

© BSI 07-1999 13
 BS 6759-2:1984

12.3 Valves used in the test programme 13.2 Test procedure

The safety valves tested shall be representative of 13.2.1 Tests on each valve. The flow characteristic
the design, pressure, and size range of valves for tests for determination of the coefficient of
which operating characteristics are required. To be discharge shall be carried out using air or other gas
representative, the ratio of valve inlet area to flow of known characteristics at three different pressures
area and the ratio of flow area to valve outlet area for each of three sizes of a given valve design unless
shall be taken into account. the size range contains not more than six sizes,
Tests shall be carried out on three sizes unless the when it is permissible to reduce the number tested
size range contains not more than six sizes, when it to two.
is permissible to reduce the number tested to two. When the range is extended from a number less
When the range is extended from a number less than seven to a number equal to or in excess of
than seven to a number equal to or in excess of seven, then tests on three sizes of valves (a total of
seven, then tests on three sizes of valves shall be nine tests) shall be carried out.
carried out. In all cases the size and pressure range shall be
When the range is extended so that the previously representative of the design range within the limits
tested safety valves are no longer representative of of the testing facility.
the range, further tests shall be carried out. In those cases where the size of valve is greater than
12.4 Test procedure can be flow tested at the test facility, the
Licensed copy:DRAKE AND SCULL, 11/03/2004, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

The tests shall be carried out using three independent authority shall, at its discretion,
subject to feasibility and opportunity, require one
significantly different springs for each size of valve.
confirmatory flow test at the location of the
Where three test pressures are required from one
installation and require the proper function of at
valve size, it is permissible to test either one valve
least one valve of the design to be demonstrated by
with three significantly different springs or three
valves of the same size at three significantly test.
different settings in order to comply with the NOTE Three geometrically similar models of different sizes
may be used to determine the coefficient of discharge.
requirements. Each test shall be carried out a
minimum of three times in order to establish and 13.2.2 Test techniques. The test techniques adopted
confirm acceptable reproducibility of performance. shall be either of the following.
In the case of valves of either novel or special design, a) A curve of the coefficient of discharge versus
of which one size only at one pressure rating is being valve lift at a given inlet pressure and, where
manufactured, tests at that set pressure shall be applicable, the appropriate blowdown ring(s)
carried out. position is used to obtain coefficients of discharge
for intermediate positions of lift by interpolation
In the case of valves of which one size only at various from this curve.
pressure ratings is being manufactured, tests shall
be carried out using four different springs which b) Curves of capacity versus valve absolute inlet
shall cover the range of pressure for which the valve pressure as a function of lift and established
shall be used. blowdown ring(s) position are used to obtain the
unique value of capacity desired based on the
13 Test to determine flow results of the operational characteristic testing.
characteristics Tests shall be conducted to establish the variation of
the coefficient of discharge with inlet pressure and
13.1 Valves used in the test programme relevant blowdown ring(s) position. If no variation
The safety valves tested shall be those for which occurs the curve in b) is used as described; however,
satisfactory operating characteristics have been if variation is noted, further tests shall be carried
established. The lift and, if a blowdown ring(s) is out as required by the independent authority to
fitted, its position shall be the one(s) established for establish additional curves for these variables.
the particular valve and overpressure during
operating characteristic testing.

14 © BSI 07-1999
 BS 6759-2:1984

13.2.3 Tests on valves of novel or special design. In Neither the coefficient of discharge nor the derated
the case of valves of either novel or special design of coefficient of discharge shall be used to calculate the
which one size only at various pressure ratings is capacity at a lower overpressure than that at which
being manufactured, tests shall be carried out at the test was carried out (see 13.2) although they can
four different set pressures which shall cover the be used to calculate the capacity at a higher
ranges of pressure for which the valve will be used overpressure.
or as determined by the limits of the test facility. The actual capacity for sub-critical flow shall only be
The discharge capacities as determined by these established by test in accordance with 13.2.2 b).
four tests shall be plotted against the absolute inlet NOTE Valves having a certified coefficient of discharge
pressure, and a straight line drawn through these established on critical flow, may not have the same coefficient of
four points and zero-zero. If all points do not lie discharge for sub-critical flow conditions. Calculations for
within ± 5 % of this line, additional testing shall be equivalent capacities for sub-critical flow will result in the
theoretical capacity equivalents only.
carried out as required by the independent
authority until the line is established without 14 Determination of coefficient of
ambiguity.
discharge and certified discharge
13.2.4 Test results. In all the methods described for capacity
flow characteristic testing, all final results shall be
within ± 5 % of the average, or additional testing 14.1 Coefficient of discharge
shall be carried out as required by the independent The coefficient of discharge, Kd, shall be calculated
Licensed copy:DRAKE AND SCULL, 11/03/2004, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

authority, until this criterion is met. from the following equation:

13.3 Adjustments during test actual flowing capacity
No adjustment to the valve shall be made during the (from test)
test. Following any change or deviation of the test K d = ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
- (5)
theoretical flowing capacity
conditions, a sufficient period of time shall be
allowed to permit the rate of flow, temperature and ( from calculation )
pressure to reach stable conditions before readings
are taken. 14.2 Derated coefficient of discharge
13.4 Records of tests The derated coefficient of discharge, Kdr, shall be
calculated from the following equation:
The test records shall include all observations,
measurements, instrument readings and Kdr = Kd × 0.9 (6)
instrument calibration record (if required) for the
objective(s) of the test. Original test records shall 14.3 Theoretical flowing (discharge) capacity
remain in the custody of the test establishment using air or any gas as the test medium
which conducted the test. Copies of all test records 14.3.1 Critical and sub-critical flow
shall be furnished to each of the parties concerned NOTE The flow of gas or vapour through an orifice increases as
with the test. Corrections and corrected values shall the downstream pressure is decreased until critical flow is
be entered separately in the test record. achieved. Further decrease of the downstream pressure does not
result in any further increase of flow.
13.5 Flow test equipment Critical flow occurs when:
The test equipment shall be designed and operated
in such a way that the actual test flowing capacity
measurement shall be accurate to within ± 2 %.
13.6 Coefficient of discharge Sub-critical flow occurs when:
The coefficient of discharge shall be determined as
specified in clause 14.
13.7 Certification of valves
where the validity of Rankine’s law is assumed and
The certified discharge capacity of the safety valves where:
shall be 0.9 of the capacity determined by test.
Where the coefficient of discharge method is used p is the actual relieving pressure (in bar,
the certified discharge capacity shall be either: absolute);
a) the theoretical capacity × coefficient of pb is the back pressure (in bar, absolute);
discharge (Kd) × 0.9; or
k is the isentropic coefficient at the relieving
b) the theoretical capacity × the derated inlet conditions (for a perfect gas k is the
coefficient of discharge (Kdr) (see 14.2). ratio of specific heats).

© BSI 07-1999 15
 BS 6759-2:1984

14.3.2 Theoretical flowing (discharge) capacity at Table 5 — Values of C relative to values of k

critical flow. Where the validity of Rankine’s law is k C k C k C
assumed, the theoretical flowing (discharge)
capacity, qmg, at critical flow shall be calculated 0.40 1.65 1.02 2.41 1.42 2.72
from the following equation: 0.45 1.73 1.04 2.43 1.44 2.73
0.50 1.81 1.06 2.45 1.46 2.74
(7) 0.55 1.89 1.08 2.46 1.48 2.76
0.60 1.96 1.10 2.48 1.50 2.77
0.65 2.02 1.12 2.50 1.52 2.78
0.70 2.08 1.14 2.51 1.54 2.79
0.75 2.14 1.16 2.53 1.56 2.80
0.80 2.20 1.18 2.55 1.58 2.82
where 0.82 2.22 1.20 2.56 1.60 2.83
qmg is the theoretical flowing capacity (in kg/h 0.84 2.24 1.22 2.58 1.62 2.84
0.86 2.26 1.24 2.59 1.64 2.85
per mm2 of flow area);
0.88 2.28 1.26 2.61 1.66 2.86
C is a function of the isentropic coefficient k 0.90 2.30 1.28 2.62 1.68 2.87
(for rounded figures see Table 5) 0.92 2.32 1.30 2.63 1.70 2.89
(8) 0.94 2.34 1.32 2.65 1.80 2.94
0.96 2.36 1.34 2.66 1.90 2.99
Licensed copy:DRAKE AND SCULL, 11/03/2004, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

0.98 2.38 1.36 2.68 2.00 3.04

0.99 2.39 1.38 2.69 2.10 3.09
k is the isentropic coefficient at the relieving 1.001 2.40 1.40 2.70 2.20 3.13
inlet conditions; if the value of k is not
available at these conditions the value 14.3.3 Theoretical flowing (discharge) capacity at
at 1.013 bar, 15 °C shall be used; sub-critical flow. The theoretical flowing (discharge)
capacity, qmg, at sub-critical flow shall be calculated
p is the actual relieving pressure (in bar, from the following equation:
absolute);
(9)
v is the specific volume at the actual relieving
pressure and the relieving temperature
(in m3/kg);
M is the molecular mass of gas (in kg/kmol);
T is the absolute temperature at the inlet
where
(in K);
Kb is the capacity correction factor for back
Z is the compressibility factor (see Figure 4);
pressure
in many cases it is unity and may be
neglected; for derivation of Z (10)
see Appendix B.

(for rounded figures see Table 6)

Other symbols used in the equation are defined
in 14.3.1 and 14.3.2.
14.4 Capacity correction for the effect of back
pressure
If the capacity of the valve ceases to be independent
of the back pressure, i.e. sub-critical flow occurs,
even if the lift remains constant, a capacity
correction shall be applied to allow for the decrease
in capacity.

16 © BSI 07-1999
 BS 6759-2:1984

For valves where the lift is a function of back The actual capacity for sub-critical flow shall only be
pressure, the manufacturer shall be asked to supply established by test.
specific information, as verified by the independent NOTE Valves having a certified coefficient of discharge
authority, where applicable. established on critical flow may not have the same coefficient of
discharge for sub-critical flow conditions. Calculations for
14.5 Certified discharge capacity for air equivalent capacities for sub-critical flow will result in the
theoretical capacity equivalents only.
The certified discharge capacity, Q, of a safety valve
for air shall be determined using the following 15.2 Valves for gas or vapour relief
equation (see Appendix A for derivation). To calculate the capacity for any gas, the area and
the coefficient of discharge shall be assumed
(11) constant and the relevant theoretical equation
of 14.3.2 shall be used.
NOTE 1 No distinction is made between substances commonly
where referred to as gases and those commonly referred to as vapour:
Q is the certified discharge capacity for air (in the term “gas” is used to describe both gas and vapour.
standard litres/s); a standard litre is that NOTE 2 Attention is drawn to the fact that the nameplate does
not give information on the condition of the gas used for
quantity measured at one atmosphere certification, therefore users and independent authorities will
pressure (1.013 bar) and at 15 °C; need to refer to the manufacturer for the information.
Kdr is the derated coefficient of discharge 15.3 Calculation of equivalent capacity
Licensed copy:DRAKE AND SCULL, 11/03/2004, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

From a gas (designated 1) of known characteristics,

actual flowing capacity (from test) × 0.9
= ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ; the equivalent capacity for a gas (designated 2),
theoretical flowing capacity (from calculation)
qmg2, shall be calculated from the following
A is the flow area (in mm2); equation:
p is the actual flowing (inlet) pressure (in bar,
absolute); (12)
t is the temperature of air at the valve inlet
(in °C).
where
15 Equivalent capacity
qmg1 is the certified capacity for reference gas 1
15.1 General (in kg/h per mm2 of flow area);
Neither the coefficient of discharge nor the derated qmg2 is the authorized equivalent capacity for
coefficient of discharge shall be used to calculate the gas 2 (in kg/h per mm2 of flow area).
capacity at a lower overpressure than that at which
the test was carried out (see 13.2), although they Symbols C, p, M, Z, T are defined in 14.3.2, and
can be used to calculate the capacity at a higher subscripts 1 and 2 indicate reference gas 1 and
overpressure. gas 2 respectively.

© BSI 07-1999 17
 BS 6759-2:1984
Licensed copy:DRAKE AND SCULL, 11/03/2004, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

Figure 4 — Compressibility factor Z as a function of reduced pressure pr and reduced

temperature Tr (see also Appendix B)

18 © BSI 07-1999
 Table 6 — Capacity correction factors for back pressure (Kb)
© BSI 07-1999
Licensed copy:DRAKE AND SCULL, 11/03/2004, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

k
pb/p
0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.001 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 1.9 2.0 2.1 2.2

0.45 1.000 0.999 0.999

0.50 1.000 0.999 0.998 0.996 0.994 0.992 0.989
0.55 1.000 0.999 0.997 0.994 0.991 0.987 0.983 0.979 0.975 0.971
0.60 0.999 0.997 0.993 0.989 0.983 0.978 0.972 0.967 0.961 0.955 0.950 0.945
0.65 0.999 0.995 0.989 0.982 0.974 0.967 0.959 0.951 0.944 0.936 0.929 0.922 0.915 0.909
0.70 0.999 0.993 0.985 0.975 0.964 0.953 0.943 0.932 0.922 0.913 0.903 0.895 0.886 0.879 0.871 0.864
0.75 1.000 0.995 0.983 0.968 0.953 0.938 0.923 0.909 0.896 0.884 0.872 0.861 0.851 0.841 0.832 0.824 0.815 0.808
0.80 0.999 0.985 0.965 0.942 0.921 0.900 0.881 0.864 0.847 0.833 0.819 0.806 0.794 0.783 0.773 0.764 0.755 0.747 0.739
0.82 0.992 0.970 0.944 0.918 0.894 0.872 0.852 0.833 0.817 0.801 0.787 0.774 0.763 0.752 0.741 0.732 0.723 0.715 0.707
0.84 0.979 0.948 0.917 0.888 0.862 0.839 0.818 0.799 0.782 0.766 0.752 0.739 0.727 0.716 0.706 0.697 0.688 0.680 0.672
0.86 0.957 0.919 0.884 0.852 0.825 0.800 0.779 0.759 0.742 0.727 0.712 0.700 0.688 0.677 0.667 0.658 0.649 0.641 0.634
0.88 0.924 0.881 0.842 0.809 0.780 0.755 0.734 0.714 0.697 0.682 0.668 0.655 0.644 0.633 0.624 0.615 0.606 0.599 0.592
0.90 0.880 0.831 0.791 0.757 0.728 0.703 0.681 0.662 0.645 0.631 0.617 0.605 0.594 0.584 0.575 0.566 0.558 0.551 0.544
0.92 0.820 0.769 0.727 0.693 0.664 0.640 0.619 0.601 0.585 0.571 0.559 0.547 0.537 0.527 0.519 0.511 0.504 0.497 0.490
0.94 0.739 0.687 0.647 0.614 0.587 0.565 0.545 0.528 0.514 0.501 0.489 0.479 0.470 0.461 0.453 0.446 0.440 0.434 0.428
0.96 0.628 0.579 0.542 0.513 0.489 0.469 0.452 0.438 0.425 0.414 0.404 0.395 0.387 0.380 0.373 0.367 0.362 0.357 0.352
0.98 0.462 0.422 0.393 0.371 0.352 0.337 0.325 0.314 0.305 0.296 0.289 0.282 0.277 0.271 0.266 0.262 0.258 0.254 0.251
1.00 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000

BS 6759-2:1984
19
 BS 6759-2:1984

Appendix A Derivation of The air-flow expression becomes:

equation (11) for the certified capacity
of a safety valve for air
Given the general equation for gas through an
orifice:
M where t is the temperature of air at the valve inlet
q mg = pC --------
ZT (in °C).
where
qmg is the theoretical flowing capacity (in kg/h Appendix B Derivation of
per mm2 of flow area); compressibility factor Z
C is the gas constant, which is a function of Compressibility factor Z at relieving conditions may
the isentropic coefficient k (for rounded be obtained from accurate p-v-T data for the gas,
figures see Table 5) using the following equation:
Z = 105 vpM/RT (12)

where
Licensed copy:DRAKE AND SCULL, 11/03/2004, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

p is the relieving pressure (in bar absolute);

p is the actual flowing (inlet) pressure (in bar T is the relieving temperature (in K);
absolute);
v is the specific volume of the gas at p and T
M is the molecular mass of gas (in kg/kmol);
(in m3/kg);
T is the absolute temperature at the inlet
M is the molecular mass of the gas (in kg/kmol);
(in K);
R is the universal gas constant
Z is the compressibility factor.
= 8314 N·m/(kmol·k).
The corresponding values for air are:
In the absence of accurate data, the compressibility
k = 1.4 therefore C = 2.7 (from Table 5)
factor may be obtained from the reduced
M = 29 temperature, Tr = T/Tc and the reduced pressure,
Z =1 pr = p/pc of the gas, from Figure 4, Tc and pc being
the critical temperature and critical pressure of the
also, given the specific volume of air of 815 L/kg pure gas respectively.
at 15 °C and at 760 mm Hg (1.013 bar) atmospheric
pressure.

20 © BSI 07-1999
 BS 6759-2:1984

Publications referred to

BS 21, Pipe threads for tubes and fittings where pressure-tight joints are made on the threads.
BS 799, Oil burning equipment.
BS 799-5, Oil storage tanks.
BS 970, Specification for wrought steels for mechanical and allied engineering purposes.
BS 970-1, General inspection and testing procedures and specific requirements for carbon, carbon
manganese, alloy and stainless steels.
BS 1123, Specification for safety valves, gauges and other safety fittings for air receivers and compressed air
installations4).
BS 1400, Copper alloy ingots and copper and copper alloys castings.
BS 1452, Specification for grey iron castings.
BS 1503, Specification for steel forgings (including semi-finished forged products) for pressure purposes.
BS 1504, Specification for steel castings for pressure purposes.
BS 1560, Steel pipe flanges and flanged fittings (nominal sizes ½ in to 24 in) for the petroleum industry.
BS 1560-2, Metric dimensions.
BS 1726, Guide to the design and specification of coil springs.
BS 1726-1, Helical compression springs.
Licensed copy:DRAKE AND SCULL, 11/03/2004, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

BS 1768, Unified precision hexagon bolts, screws and nuts (UNC and UNF threads). Normal series.
BS 1769, Unified black hexagon bolts, screws and nuts (UNC and UNF threads). Heavy series.
BS 1780, Specification for bourdon tube pressure and vacuum gauges.
BS 1780-2, Metric units.
BS 2056, Specification for stainless steel wire for mechanical springs.
BS 2594, Carbon steel welded horizontal cylindrical storage tanks.
BS 2654, Vertical steel welded storage tanks with butt-welded shells for the petroleum industry.
BS 2708, Unified black square and hexagon bolts, screws and nuts (UNC and UNF threads). Normal series.
BS 2789, Iron castings with spheroidal or nodular graphite.
BS 2803, Prehardened and tempered carbon and low alloy round steel wire for springs for general
engineering purposes.
BS 2874, Copper and copper alloys. Rods and sections (other than forging stock).
BS 3146, Investment castings in metal.
BS 3146-1, Carbon and low alloys steels.
BS 3636, Methods for proving the gas tightness of vacuum or pressurized plant.
BS 3692, ISO metric precision hexagon bolts, screws and nuts.
BS 4080, Methods for non-destructive testing of steel castings.
BS 4190, ISO metric black hexagon bolts, screws and nuts.
BS 4439, Screwed studs for general purposes.
BS 4504, Flanges and bolting for pipes, valves and fittings. Metric series.
BS 4504-1, Ferrous.
BS 4504-2, Copper alloy and composite flanges.
BS 4570, Fusion welding of steel castings.
BS 4570-1, Production, rectification and repair.
BS 4882, Bolting for flanges and pressure containing purposes.
BS 5216, Patented cold drawn carbon steel wire for mechanical springs.
BS 5387, Specification for vertical cylindrical welded storage tanks for low-temperature service; double-wall
tanks for temperatures down to – 196 °C.

4)
Referred to in the foreword only.

© BSI 07-1999
 BS 6759-2:
1984
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